South Carolina: State Record Fish Catches

South Carolina, also known as the "Palmetto State,"  is one of the most attractive destinations for anglers worldwide. This country can boast of almost 190 miles of coastline. 

This eastern country abounds with trophy catches, attracting fishing enthusiasts who dream of their biggest catch. South Carolina fishing records testify to impressive fishing achievements.

South Carolina's coastal waters abound in diversity, with marshes, shallow bays, and seabays rich in different types of fish. The waters of the Gulf Stream harbor some of the sea's most powerful predators.

It's for anglers who prefer a challenge. Freshwater anglers will also find prime locations on the lakes. Achieving a record catch here is a matter of prestige. Anyone who wants to test their skills is welcome. You might even become a part of history.

Largest Fish Caught in South Carolina by Species

South Carolina is a true destination for avid anglers. Its locations, such as Myrtle Beach or Mount Pleasant, offer an unforgettable experience. This federal state has a rich history of record catches, making its waters a special place for anglers.

One of South Carolina's most impressive catches is a 1,780-pound Tiger Shark that W. Maxwell caught at Cherry Grove in 1964. This fish is still the largest ever caught in this state. 

The list of record catches includes many species that attract anglers from all over. Each represents a story that leaves a mark in the history of sport fishing.

Black Seabass

Black Seabass are a favorite target of anglers in South Carolina. This species is known for its combativeness. Also, it is delicious. 

• Appearance: The Black Seabass is dark, almost black, with characteristic white spots on its body. Adults are usually 10 to 20 inches long, but some specimens can grow even larger.
• Habitat: Lives in coastal waters and swims near reefs and shipwrecks. During the winter, it moves closer to the coast, making it more accessible to anglers.

During the winter, Black Seabass fishing becomes especially attractive. The fish move to shallower waters. This migration makes fishing easier. It provides the opportunity to catch larger specimens.

State Record

The South Carolina record for Black Seabass was set in Fripp Inlet and still stands.

• South Carolina record: Still active
• Year: 1995
• Catch: 8 pounds, 3 ounces
• Angler: L.L. Hudson

This catch shows just how impressive specimens can be in South Carolina waters, and the world record is even more remarkable.

World Record 

The world record for Black Bass was set on January 1, 2000. It was in the coastal waters of Virginia. Angler Alan Paschal caught a specimen weighing 10 pounds, 4 ounces. This record inspired many anglers to explore the rich waters of the Atlantic Ocean.

• World Record: Still active (Virginia Beach, USA)
• Year: 2000
• Catch: 10 pounds, 4 ounces
• Angler: Allan Paschall

This record is a tribute to the incredible potential of this species. It indicates the possibility of catching large specimens and emphasizes the richness of the Atlantic Ocean's waters. The world record for Black Seabass remains a goal and challenge for anglers.

Bluefish

Bluefish are one of the most exciting targets for anglers. This fish is characterized by great strength. It has very aggressive behavior and is a great fighter. All these features make it a real challenge for anglers. 

• Appearance: The Bluefish has an elongated, blush-grey body. Its sharp teeth and strong jaws are adapted to capture prey.
• Habitat: This type of fish lives in coastal waters. It is often found near sea currents and schools of small fish, where it is easy to feed.

The average size of this species is between 5 and 10 pounds. Larger specimens can reach significantly larger dimensions. Below, you can see the state and world records.

State Record

The state record for Bluefish was set in 1975. The location of this record was in Charleston. Then J. A. Curtis caught this impressive 21-pound fish.

• South Carolina Record: Still active
• Year: 1975
• Catch: 21 pounds
• Angler: J. A. Curtis

This impressive catch has been the South Carolina record for decades and presents a challenge to any angler hoping to surpass it. Live baits such as mullet and menhaden are often used to catch Bluefish and artificial baits that imitate the fast movements of the prey are also used.

World Record

James Hussey caught the world-record Bluefish in Hatteras Inlet, North Carolina, on January 1, 1972. Hussey was trolling with plastic eels when a huge Bluefish attacked his bait. The fight lasted 15 minutes. This record has become one of the most celebrated in sport fishing.

• World Record: Still active (North Carolina, USA)
• Year:1972
• Catch: 31 pounds, 2 ounces
• Angler: James Hussey

This catch remains one of the most impressive in sport fishing history and is still remembered as an exciting moment.

 Bluefish are most active during spring and fall when they migrate along the coast. During those seasons, the population of this species reaches its peak, providing a perfect fishing opportunity.

Cobia

Cobia attracts a lot of attention among anglers. It is especially popular on the coasts of the United States. This fish is known for its combativeness and size, making it one of the most sought-after catches in coastal waters. It is also known for its curious nature. It can often be seen swimming near large sea creatures. 

• Appearance: Cobia is a dark-colored fish with a white belly, elongated body, and sharp tail. It can reach lengths up to 72 inches and weigh up to 100 pounds, but the most common fish weigh between 30 and 60 pounds.
• Habitat: Cobia inhabits coastal areas near structures such as rocks and reefs. They often swim near the shore but can also be found at greater depths during spring and summer.

State Record

The record for this species was set in 2009  on Hilton Head Island. Angler R. Maroudas caught an impressive Cobia weighing 92 pounds, 10 ounces. This record catch in the Hilton Head area shows the exceptional fertility of these waters. 

• South Carolina Record: Still active
• Catch: 92 pounds, 10 ounces
• Year: 2009
• Angler: R. Maroudas

This record is one of the most impressive in Cobia fishing. This fish weighs almost twice as much as the average Cobia. Fish commonly caught in South Carolina usually weigh between 20 and 50 pounds.

World Record

The world record for Cobia was set on July 9, 1985, in Shark Bay, Western Australia. Angler Peter Goulding caught an impressive 135-pound Cobia. 

• World Record: Still active (Shark Bay, Western Australia)
• Catch: 135 pounds, 9 ounces
• Year: 1985.
• Angler: Peter Goulding

This record still stands and testifies to the impressiveness of this fish.

Flounder

Flounder is one of the most popular fish in South Carolina. It is known for its exceptional camouflage, which allows it to blend perfectly with the bottom of coastal areas. 

• Appearance: Flounders are fish with a significantly flattened body and large eyes that move to one side. They are usually brown or gray, and a lighter belly allows them to hide on the bottom successfully. Flounders can grow up to 30 inches, but most are about 20 inches long and weigh between 1 and 3 pounds.
• Habitat: Flounders are often found in coastal areas, estuaries, and bays. In South Carolina, favorite places to fish for Flounder include Murrells Inlet, Charleston, and Myrtle Beach.

Flounders prefer sandy and muddy bottoms, where they wait for their prey. They usually do this at depths of 3 to 20 feet.

State Record

The record for Flounder in South Carolina was set in 2021.   J. Fairey caught a fish weighing 6 pounds, 4.8 ounces, in Murrells Inlet. 

• South Carolina Record: Still active
• Catch: 6 pounds, 4.8 ounces
• Year: 2021
• Angler: J. Fairey

This fish has set a high standard. Common Flounder catches in this region usually weigh between 1 and 3 pounds.

World Record

The world record for Flounder was set on October 4, 1983, in Nassau Sound, Florida. Larenza Mungin caught an impressive 20-pound, 9-ounce fish, which still holds the record. 

• World Record: Still active (Florida, USA)
• Catch: 20 pounds, 9 ounces
• Year: 1983
• Angler: Larenza Mungin

The fish was 33 inches long. Mungin used shrimp as bait, and the fight lasted 15 minutes. After the catch, the fish was taken to Harrell's Seafood Market and precisely measured on a certified scale.

Gag Grouper

Gag Grouper is known for its strength and size, which is why it is so popular. This type of Grouper is very popular among those looking for a challenge. 

• Appearance: Gag Grouper has a massive, stocky body, a broad head, and a big mouth. Its color is usually dark green or gray, with a lighter belly. Sometimes, dark spots or light stripes can be seen on the body. These fish can grow enormously, with specimens weighing 50 pounds or more.
• Habitat: Gag Grouper inhabits the deep sea, mainly in underwater cliffs and steep slopes. Due to its nature, the Gag Grouper likes areas that allow it to escape and cover quickly.

This fish fights powerfully and can quickly retreat to cover. Gag Grouper is a challenging species to catch, but the reward of an impressive catch makes every effort worthwhile.

State Record

The state record for Gag Grouper in South Carolina was set in 2018.  James L. Lasher III caught this huge fish, weighing 54 pounds and 4 ounces. Most Gag Grouper fish in this region weigh between 10 and 20 pounds. Isle of Palms Marina remains one of the best places to fish this species.

• South Carolina Record: Still active
• Year: 2018
• Weight: 54 pounds, 4 ounces
• Angler: James L. Lasher III

This catch is fantastic. Still, it's not a world record. Below, you can check the biggest fish of this specimen ever caught.

World Record

According to IGFA, the largest recorded individual of this species was caught on October 14, 1993, during fishing in Destin, Florida. The weight of the captured specimen was 80 pounds. Unfortunately, the angler's name who caught this fish was not recorded.

• World Record: Still active (Florida, USA)
• Catch: 80 pounds
• Year: October 14, 1993
• Angler: Not known.

This record catch shows the strength and size of the Gag Grouper and its enormous growth potential.

Largemouth Bass

Largemouth Bass is one of the most popular freshwater fish in the United States. It is known for its imposing size, agility, and combative nature. It is often found in lakes and rivers, and anglers love it for its sheer power and excitement. 

• Appearance: Largemouth Bass have a greenish body and a dark stripe running down each side. They can grow up to 20 inches and are characterized by their big mouths, which allow them to catch different types of fish. 
• Habitat: Largemouth Bass inhabit freshwater ecosystems, such as lakes and rivers. They are usually found in areas with rich vegetation and prefer shallow waters. 

Popular fishing spots for Largemouth Bass include lakes such as Okeechobee in Florida. 

State Record

South Carolina boasts two record catches of Largemouth Bass weighing 16 pounds, 2 ounces. The first record was set in 1949 when P. H. Flanagan caught a Bass on Lake Marion. 

• South Carolina Record: Still active
• Catch: 16 pounds, 2 ounce
• Year: 1949 (tied) and 1993 (tied)
• Angler: P. H. Flanagan (1949), Mason Cummings (1993)

This record was equaled in 1993. Then Mason Cummings caught a Bass of the same weight in a private lake in Aiken County. These record catches indicate that even smaller lakes can produce record Bass in South Carolina.

World Record

The 2009 catch, set in California, holds the global record for Largemouth Bass. Manabu Kurita caught a specimen weighing 22 pounds 4 ounces, the largest known specimen of this type of fish.

• World Record: Still active (California, USA)
• Year: 2009
• Catch: 22 pounds, 4 ounces
• Angler: Manabu Kurita

This catch remains one of the most impressive moments in freshwater fishing history. It remains a motive for anglers to try to surpass it.

Redfish

Redfish is one of the most prized fish on the Gulf Coast. She is known for her strength and endurance. It also has a characteristic color. Catch records of this species set high standards for any enthusiast. 

• Appearance: Redfish are reddish, which changes depending on the habitat. They are known for dark spots on their tails, a distinctive sign of this species. Redfish can grow up to 40 inches long; some specimens may be larger. Their firm, muscular bodies enable them to be highly combative when fishing.
• Habitat: They live in shallow, mostly in coastal areas. They prefer warm waters and are often near rocks and pebbles. 

Murrells Inlet is one of the most famous Redfish fishing spots. Below, we go through the most significant specimens of this species. Check state and world records.

State Record

In 1965, A. J. Taylor set the record for the heaviest Redfish. This record catch of 75 pounds is still unsurpassed. Murrells Inlet has become a legendary spot for catching Redfish.

• South Carolina Record: Still active
• Year: 1965
• Catch: 75 pounds
• Angler: A. J. Taylor

This record is still active and is considered one of the most outstanding achievements in fishing for this species. Spring and autumn are the best times to catch this fish.

World Record

David Dewell set the world record for Redfish in 1984. The catch was made on the beach in Avon, North Carolina, and remains the most important moment in the history of fishing for this species.

• World Record: Still active (North Carolina, USA)
• Year: 1984
• Catch: 94 pounds, 2 ounces
• Angler: David Dewell

This catch set the standards in fishing. It is considered one of the most impressive achievements in the coastal fishery. The fight with this fish lasted as long as 45 minutes. David covered over a mile during the fight as he dragged the fish to shore.

Spotted Seatrout

Spotted Seatrout, or Speckled Trout, is a popular fish caught in coastal waters. It is especially valued among anglers in South Carolina. This fish is a challenge for every angler. It swims in shallow, calm waters, and its fighting spirit provides exciting fishing.

• Appearance: Spotted Seatrout is recognizable by its silver-gray body. Its body is elongated, with numerous black spots on its back and flanks. It has extremely prominent teeth. It can grow up to 30 inches and weigh up to 15 pounds.
• Habitat: This species is mainly found in coastal areas and river mouths. It prefers warm, shallow water that is rich in food. Spotted Seatrout is often seen in wetlands and estuaries. Popular places to catch this fish in South Carolina include Murrells Inlet and Charleston.

These fish are usually caught with live bait, like shrimp and mullet. Artificial decoys are also used. 

The best time to fish for Spotted Seatrout is early morning or late evening. The peak season is in autumn and winter.

State Record

The state record for Spotted Seatrout was set in 1976. Angler A. Pendergrass caught this impressive specimen. That's what happened in Murrells Inlet. 

• South Carolina Record: Still active
• Year: 1976
• Catch: 11 pounds, 13 ounces
• Angler: A. Pendergrass

This catch is one of the most memorable moments in inshore fishing history. Weighing in at nearly 12 pounds, this Spotted Seatrout significantly exceeds the average catches in the area. The record set by Pendergrass has not been surpassed to this day.

World Record

Craig Carson set the world record for Spotted Seatrout on May 11, 1995. He caught a fish that weighed 17 pounds 7 ounces in Fort Pierce, Florida.

• World Record: Still active (Florida, USA)
• Year: 1995
• Catch: 17 pounds, 7 ounces
• Angler: Craig Carson

 Craig realized the size of his catch after it was measured. This record still stands and is a serious reference in the fishing world.

Striped Bass

Striped Bass, or Striper, is one of the most sought-after species for sport fishing. Its strength and size attract anglers.

• Appearance: Striped Bass have an elongated body and distinctive horizontal stripes that stretch along the sides. They usually weigh 10 to 20 pounds but can grow much larger. 
• Habitat: This species lives in coastal waters. Top fishing spots include the Combahee River and Lake Murray.

The cooler months are ideal for fishing. The peak of activity is in spring and autumn.

State Record 

B. W. Chambers set the state record for Striped Bass in 1993 in the Combahee River. This massive fish weighed 46 pounds, 13 ounces, more than double the average weight of this species in the region.

• South Carolina Record: Still active
• Year: 1993
• Catch: 46 pounds, 13 ounces
• Angler: B. W. Chambers

The Combahee River is known for its diverse fauna, which makes it a perfect habitat for Striped Bass. This impressive catch inspires anglers who aspire to break the record.

World Record

The world record for Striped Bass was set on August 4, 2011. Then Greg Myerson caught an 81-pound, 4-ounce fish. This impressive catch occurred off the coast of Westbrook, Connecticut. It surpassed the previous record by three pounds. The previous record stood for almost three decades.

• World Record: Still active (Connecticut, USA)
• Year: 2011
• Catch: 81 pounds, 4 ounces
• Angler: Greg Myerson

Myerson subdued this huge fish in just 15 minutes, showing incredible skill. This record is based on the fish's weight. Although there are longer Striped Bass specimens, none have reached this weight.

Tiger Shark

The Tiger Shark is one of the most famous sharks. This species stands out for its distinctive appearance and is considered one of the ocean's top predators.

• Appearance: The Tiger Shark gets its name from the dark stripes on its body that resemble tiger patterns. Its aerodynamic body allows it to move smoothly through the water. It has a broad head and a large mouth with rows of sharp teeth adapted for cutting and crushing prey. It can reach an impressive length of 10 to 14 feet and weighs between 850 and 1,400 pounds.
• Habitat: Tiger sharks are widely distributed and swim in warm tropical and subtropical waters.  Their adaptability allows them to live in depths from a few feet to over 1,100 feet. 

The Tiger Shark is vital to the ecosystem, helping to maintain a balance between different species and playing a key role in the ocean food chain.

State Record

As we said at the beginning, a specimen of this species is the largest fish ever caught in this state. This record shark weighed 1780 pounds. Impressive, right?

• South Carolina Record: Still active
• Catch: 1780 pound
• Year: 1964
• Angler: Walter Maxvel

This record is almost 60 years old. The real question is whether it will ever be overthrown. 

World Record

 The world record for this species was set in 2004 by  Kevin James Clapson in Ulladulla, Australia. The weight of this specimen was 1785 pounds, 11 ounces.

• World Record: Still active (Ulladulla, Australia)
• Catch: 1785 pounds
• Year: 2004
• Angler: Kevin James Clapson

These sharks are extremely dangerous and hard-fighting but are also highly rated game fish, so this record speaks for itself.

Final Thoughts

This briefly overviews some of South Carolina's most impressive fishing records. Fishing is a sport where limits are set to be pushed.

We invite you to try your luck and skills at these locations. You may be the next person whose name graces the list of outstanding fishing achievements. Each new adventure offers an opportunity for unforgettable stories.

Which catch excited you the most? Do you have any interesting fishing stories from South Carolina? We look forward to your comments and experiences!

Disclaimer: The images used in this article are not of specific record catches or events. They are included for illustrative purposes to represent the fish species discussed. Our team has manually checked all data. We strive to keep all information current; some details may occasionally become outdated.